The Harrier was originally designed to provide fast, effective close-air support for U.S. Marine Corps ground forces and to fly interdiction missions. It adds a multimission capability to the vertical/short takeoff and landing features that allow Harriers to operate where other fixed-wing aircraft cannot. It is the most advanced vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) jet in use today. The radar-equipped Harrier II Plus can now perform a wide range of missions around the clock.

The radar, in conjunction with the aircraft's night-attack systems, increases the pilot's ability to perform and air-to-air missions in darkness and adverse weather. The Harrier II Plus
radar also provides improved and pilot situational awareness. The Harrier II Plus is also equipped with an increased-thrust version of the Rolls-Royce Pegasus F402-RR which is found in night-attack Harrier lls.

The AV-8B was the first U.S. Marine Corps tactical aircraft to arrive in the theater during Operation Desert Storm. Harrier lls operated from an unused airfield and a small forward-based airstrip, as well as from ships in the Gulf. During the 42 days of combat, 86 Harrier lls flew 3,380 combat sorties, 4,112 combat hours, and delivered six million pounds of ordnance. Throughout Desert Storm, Harrier II squadrons achieved an aircraft readiness than 90 percent, hence the nickname "JumpJet".